Rules to Prosper by

Any successful relationship works primarily because each side lives up to its roles and responsibilities. Of course, with over 30 million acceptance locations, the MasterCard network operates under a specific set of rules that informs, guides and provides clarity to all of its members, processors, and merchants. And we’re confident that will include you.

As a MasterCard processor or merchant, you’re vital to our success. Naturally, that success is better assured if you have access to and understand MasterCard rules and how they apply to your business. That’s why we’re pleased to now be able to share with you our rules for the MasterCard, Cirrus® and Maestro® brands.

The first thing you should know is that we require our member banks and other financial institutions that issue cards and acquire transactions to comply with MasterCard rules. Those members, in turn, must ensure that their processors and the merchants they acquire for also comply with MasterCard rules.

You should also be aware that MasterCard rules and other standards change frequently. While we always strive to keep the documents on this website up to date, it’s possible that they will not always be absolutely current in all regards. In the event of any discrepancy between the documents found at this website and those rules and standards MasterCard deems to be the official rules and standards, the official rules and standards will apply.

Feel free to download the official MasterCard rules and other important documents to the right.